(WWJ) - As winter weather, hopefully, draws to a close, the Upper Peninsula is gearing up for spring waterfall season when massive snowfall begins to melt and finds its way into nearby rivers, setting off fantastic fully-flowing waterfalls.
The landscape and terrain of U.P. creates the perfect home for over 300 waterfalls that range in size from under five feet to over 48 feet vertical drops.
Specifically, the state's remote Keweenaw Peninsula boasts the most accessible waterfall views, as some trails in other regions remain muddy or closed due to weather conditions through May.
But visitors are in luck, according to Visitkeweenaw.com -- their waterfall season is just ow hitting its peak.
"The best time for waterfall touring in the Upper Peninsula is typically from mid-March to late April," officials stated on their website. "During this time, the Upper Peninsula's winter snowfall rapidly melts recharging streams and waterways which feed the falls. Beyond waterfalls, the spring offers many unique outdoor experiences."
JACOB'S FALLS:
Jacob's Falls in Keweenaw peninsula MichiganJohn Byers/Getty
This stunning waterfall is located about three miles northeast of Eagle River on the south side of M-26 and is easily visible from the road. Considered a smaller falls, it has a total drop of about 40 feet.
The main section closer to the road falls about 20 feet over rough stone, creating a stunning view. Those who want to hike the falls can utilize the trail on the side of the rock into the woods upstream -- but be warned, the hike is steep.
Located at: Sand Dunes Dr., Eagle River, MI 49950
EAGLE RIVER FALLS:
A vertical shot of Eagle River Falls on Keweenaw peninsula, MichiganEdward Parker/Getty
The beautiful Eagle River Lower Falls can be found along the south side of M-26 right in downtown Eagle River. The falls make for an easy viewing experience as you can see its spectacular flow from the comfort of your car. Guests are welcome to walk to the nearby pedestrian bridge for a better view.
According to VisitKeweenaw.com, the falls flows through the site of the original Lake Superior Fuse Company. The remains of the dam still sit on most of the 60-foot wide river.
"The dam extends the falls to a total height of well over 60 feet. Water drops over the dam in a straight sheet, forms tendrils that flow over the rocks forming its steep banks then rejoins at the bottom of the deep gorge," officials said.
Located at: 5055 M-26, Eagle River, MI 49950
CANYON FALLS:
Canyon Falls located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The falls are nature area are located at a roadside park between Marquette and Baraga Michigan.ehrlif/Getty
Canyon Falls is nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the U.P." -- and not without good reason. The stunning falls is located eight miles south of L'Anse on the south side of US-41 at a seasonal roadside park that reopened for the summer season just last month. The trail begins in the parking lot and leads you on a winding hike where victors can see a series of waterfalls along the Sturgeon River as it races its way through steep, narrow walls of rock.
Officials state the hike is relatively easy on a mostly flat path that takes roughly 10 minute to walk through forests and along the river with boardwalks and bridges on the way.
Location at: Old US Hwy 41, L'Anse, MI 49946
HAVEN FALLS:
Haven Falls is the beautiful centerpiece of a roadside park in Lac La Belle Michigan. The scenic stop is located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in the Keweenaw Peninsulaehrlif/Getty
Visitors can take Lac La Belle road south off of US-41, approximately one mile east of Delaware, and drive 4.5 miles to the fork at the bottom of the hill. Turn right and the beauty of Haven Park unfolds roughly a half mile on the right.
The falls are located at the back of the roadside park. Guests can view the falls right from their car. The small creek runs over the side of a rock outcropping to a small pool, officials state, then on downstream past a small footbridge and through the park on its way to Lac La Belle. Guests are welcome to picnic at the tables and grills and refresh themselves at the restrooms.
Located at: Gay Lac La Belle Rd., Lac La Belle, MI 49950
For a complete list of the hundreds of other waterfalls in the Keweenaw Peninsula, visit here. Happy Travels!
